What a year it’s been! As we wind down 2024, we’re filled with gratitude for the incredible work and dedication of our members and partners. Together, we’ve navigated a complex energy landscape, achieved significant progress, and helped position the networks industry in readiness for what’s ahead.

Energy Networks Australia would like to wish all our members and collaborators a very happy and safe holiday period. We look forward to working with you again in 2025. Until then, let’s have a quick look back at the year that was.

Decarbonising our networks and paving the way for renewables

Our landmark report ‘The time is now: Getting smarter with the grid’ highlighted the potential of using the grid technologies to support more renewable energy integration and reduce costs for consumers. These are real, tangible actions that can start today, and can deliver immediate benefits for customers.

We’ve shared the findings with policy makers across the country and we’re pleased to see some actions and recommendations included the Climate Change Authority’s Annual Progress Report, released in November.

We also released ‘Renewable gas for a future made in Australia’, our recommendations for a pathway to solve for  Australian industry which can’t easily or affordably electrify its operations.  Through the development of renewable gas solutions now, we can lay the foundation for keeping industry and jobs in Australia.

Network resilience and reliability

This year, our networks demonstrated considerable resilience in the face of extreme weather events. We acknowledge the vital role of AEMO in operating Australia’s complex electricity system, especially amid increasing climate variability and rapid technological change. We know that, with a changing climate, we will all be called upon to do more in this important space.

Customer focus

In 2024 we have seen our members taking on major customer-focused projects and initiatives, all while continuing to drive improved reliability and performance at every level. To drive change and put downward pressure on prices, it takes a serious commitment to innovation and a drive to ensure customers are at the heart of all decisions.

Celebrating the best of our industry

We were privileged to once again celebrate the best of the networks sector at our Annual Dinner & Awards, held in September. This year’s winners were:

• Individual Contribution Award: James Brown – SA Power Networks
• Industry Innovation Award: South Australian Interconnector Trip Remedial Action Scheme (SAIT-RAS) – ElectraNet
• Women in Networks Award (New): Dana Boxall – Powerlink Queensland
• Consumer Engagement Award: Co-designing a Micro Grid at Bawley Point – Endeavour Energy

With thanks to our Presenting Partners, Baringa, CutlerMerz and The Wellbeing Outfit.

Industry collaboration

A number of important industry events in 2024 saw the best and brightest come together to problem-solve and innovate at this critical point in the energy transition.

The EN24 Conference & Exhibition: Our biennial conference – our biggest, yet! – brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to discuss the future of the energy sector. Against a backdrop of South Australia’s significant energy progress and innovation, attendees heard from an international speaker lineup while having the opportunity to engage with peers from across the country.

Parliamentary Friends of the Energy Transition: We supported the launch of this bipartisan group to foster collaboration and drive policy reform. We look forward to supporting this group’s activities into 2025, and beyond. We also hosted members, MPs and staffers at our end-of-year Parliamentary Reception. 

The annual Regulation Seminar also continued to provide a critical point of discussion on how regulation and networks can continue to evolve to best serve the needs of future customers. As we move into 2025, ENA remains dedicated to working with our members, industry partners, and policymakers to build a sustain able energy future for Australia. We are committed to delivering reliable, affordable, and clean energy for all Australians.

Looking ahead to 2025

As we step into the new year, we’re excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Together with our Members we will continue to:

• Facilitate the energy transition: Drive the adoption of renewable energy sources and support investment in critical infrastructure.
• Enhance network resilience: Prepare for future challenges, such as extreme weather events and cyber threats.
• Prioritise customer experience: Support exceptional service delivery and empower customers to make informed energy choices.
• Advocate for sound policy: Work with market bodies and policymakers to create a supportive regulatory and policy environment for innovation and investment.

A heartfelt ‘thank you’

We want to express our sincere gratitude to our Members for their unwavering support and contributions throughout the year. Your expertise, dedication, and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in our success.

As we approach the holiday season, we wish you and your loved ones a joyous and restful time. Here’s to a bright 2025 powered by collaboration and a shared commitment to progressing the energy transition.